Minaret + Cecile Lake

This hike leads to 2 beautiful alpine lakes: Minaret Lake and Cecile Lake. At nearly 20 miles in length, it makes for a very long day hike, but can also be overnighted with good camping at Minaret Lake (permit required).

To begin, you’ll need to catch the shuttle bus to Red’s Meadow. From the trailhead there are a couple different options, including walking past Devil’s Postpile. Regardless of which route you choose at the beginning, you’ll soon join the John Muir Trail.

Follow the JMT to the junction with the Minaret Creek Trail and turn left.

You’ll now follow this new trail as it gains elevation. You’ll be near namesake Minaret Creek at times before finally topping out at Minaret Lake. The lake is stunning, with crystal clear water and jagged peaks behind.

The trail leads around the lake, with some good campsites on the north side. You can then continue up to Cecile Lake via an obvious use trail.

Cecile Lake offers another stunning vista with the beautiful Minarets dominating the backdrop. The shore of Cecile Lake is very rocky with no good camping options.

It is possible to continue onto Iceberg Lake via a faint and rocky use path, but otherwise return the way you came back to Red’s Meadow.